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Ruben Arribas

About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

The Credit Score Americans Need For Mortgages That Europeans Never Heard Of

A friendly, side-by-side look at how the U.S. turns one number into a mortgage gatekeeper, while most European lenders still judge you by pay stubs, bank habits, and national rules. Current as of September 2025. You sit down with a U.S. lender and they ask for your credit score before they ask your name. The …

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Why Dinner in the Mediterranean Doesn’t Start Until Most Americans Are in Bed

Why This Topic Matters You’re visiting Spain or Italy, expecting dinner around 6 or 7 PM. Then you realize restaurants don’t even open until 8, and locals might not show up until 9 or 10. Is everyone just night-owls? Or do they run on a different clock? Below are 8 genuine reasons Mediterranean locals push …

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This Couple Sold Their Phoenix House and Bought 3 Properties in Portugal

Selling in a hot U.S. market can feel like a reset button. Phoenix is a prime example. After a long run of gains, plenty of owners there are sitting on real equity. Portugal, meanwhile, keeps popping up for climate, safety, food, and everyday costs. The headline idea is catchy: sell a Phoenix house, buy three …

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Why French 3-Year-Olds Eat Oysters While American Kids Eat Nuggets

The difference is not bravery or genetics, it is how adults structure taste, safety, and school food from the start, so new flavors feel normal instead of foreign. You will see a French toddler take a curious bite of a briny oyster at a holiday table, then go back to bread and butter without a …

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The Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe That Never Fails

Few desserts hold as much universal appeal as the classic chocolate chip cookie. Crisp at the edges, chewy in the center, and packed with melty chocolate, it’s the kind of treat that instantly feels nostalgic. Whether fresh out of the oven or saved for a late-night snack, these cookies have become a symbol of comfort …

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The 3 Most Popular Swiss Dinners You Need to Try at Home

Switzerland may be best known for its chocolate and cheese, but its dinner table tells a much richer story. With influences from Germany, France, and Italy, Swiss cuisine blends Alpine heartiness with refined European flavors. From comforting cheese-based dishes to meat-rich meals meant to warm up long winters, Swiss dinners are as much about tradition …

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I Live Comfortably in Lisbon on $2,000/Month—Here’s How

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and modern living. Known for its picturesque neighborhoods, stunning architecture, and warm climate, it’s no wonder that many aspire to call this city home. While Lisbon has gained popularity in recent years, leading to an increase in living costs, it’s still …

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The World’s Most Popular Dish Revealed (And How to Make It at Home)

The title of the “most popular dish in the world” is often debated, but one dish that consistently ranks at the top globally is Pizza. Its origins are Italian, but pizza has become a beloved comfort food across cultures and continents. Below is a guide on how to make a classic Margherita pizza, one of …

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The Shocking Madrid Rent Gap: Why Tourists Pay €3,000 While Locals Pay €1000

And what it reveals about information gaps, digital colonialism, and how locals survive the global housing crisis. Post “Madrid apartment needed” in any expat Facebook group, and watch the vultures circle. “Gorgeous flat in Malasaña, only €2,800!” “Stunning Chueca penthouse, €3,500, available now!” “Charming studio near Retiro, €1,900, perfect for digital nomads!” Meanwhile, in Spanish …

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20 Expat Hotspots Americans Are Flocking to in 2025

As Americans explore new opportunities abroad, choosing the right destination becomes a crucial decision. Many countries offer enticing benefits, from better work-life balance and affordable healthcare to vibrant cultures and warm climates. Growing global connectivity and remote work options make it easier than ever to live and work from almost anywhere. With various factors to …

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7 Paris Tourist Traps That Will Ruin Your Trip (And How to Dodge Them)

Paris is a city that captivates millions every year, drawing travelers with its history, romance, and culture. But behind the Eiffel Tower views and café terraces, there are plenty of tourist traps designed to lure the unsuspecting visitor. These spots often come with inflated prices, long lines, or experiences that don’t live up to the …

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15 Most Beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe You Need to See

Europe is home to some of the world’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each representing centuries of culture, architecture, and human achievement. From ancient Roman ruins to Gothic cathedrals and natural wonders, these sites aren’t just beautiful—they’re a window into the soul of Europe itself. Visiting UNESCO sites is more than sightseeing; it’s stepping …

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